How to Prepare Trees for Storm Season in Brisbane

As the storm season approaches in Brisbane, it’s only natural to be concerned about the health and safety of your trees and property. Those powerful winds, heavy rain, and unpredictable weather can turn a peaceful garden into a potential hazard. One moment your yard looks beautiful, and the next, a tree or large branch could come crashing down, threatening your home and your family’s safety.

That’s where we come in. Brisbane Tree Removals has been operating for over 14 years. We’re all about keeping Brisbane’s trees and your property safe during storm season. Plus, our licensed and professional arborists follow strict Safe Work Method Instructions (SWMS), ensuring both your safety and your tree’s health. And guess what? We clean up the mess too!

Keep reading to find out some key steps you can take to prepare your trees for Brisbane’s storm season.

Understanding Cyclones vs Storms

While Brisbane might not see cyclones as often as storms, both can cause significant damage. Cyclones are much larger and more intense, while storms tend to be smaller in scale but still pack a punch with wind and rain. Here’s a quick comparison to help you better prepare:

AspectCycloneStorm
DefinitionLarge-scale wind system with a low-pressure centreAny disturbance involving strong winds and rain
SizeCan span hundreds of kilometersUsually localised and smaller in size
IntensityMuch more intense, with extreme winds and rainVaries, but generally less intense than cyclones
LocationForms over warm oceansCan form over land or sea
ImpactWidespread damage, especially in coastal areasMore localised damage, though severe storms are dangerous

Knowing these differences can help you gauge potential risks and prepare accordingly.

When Is Australia’s Cyclone Season?

Australia’s cyclone season officially runs from November to April, though cyclones can occur outside these months. The regions most at risk are areas within 50 kilometres of the coastline, stretching from Bundaberg to Thursday Island, including the Gulf of Carpentaria. While Brisbane isn’t as cyclone-prone, storm season still brings plenty of action that can impact your trees and property.

What Trees Require Special Attention During Storms?

Not all trees are created equal when it comes to weathering storms. Some are more vulnerable than others, especially during severe weather conditions. Here are some types of trees that require special attention:

  • Newly Planted Trees – Young trees don’t have well-developed root systems yet, making them more likely to be uprooted in high winds.
  • Thick-Canopied Trees – Dense canopies catch more wind, which can lead to broken branches or the tree tipping over.
  • Ailing or Dead Trees – Weak or decaying trees are much more likely to fail during a storm.
  • Proximity to Structures – Trees close to homes or power lines pose a risk if branches break off.
  • Root System Issues – Loose soil or exposed roots could indicate that a tree is at risk of being uprooted.
  • Decay and Infestations – Signs like trunk cavities, decayed limbs, and insect infestations make trees more vulnerable.
  • Leaning Trees – A tree that leans might have root problems, making it more likely to fall in strong winds.

Tips to Mitigate Storm Impact on Trees

Here are some practical steps that you can take to protect your trees (and property) from storm damage:

  1. Schedule a Professional Inspection – Get a certified arborist to assess the health of your trees and identify any potential risks like decay, disease, or structural weakness. Early detection can prevent future problems.
  2. Prune Dead or Weak Tree Branches – Removing vulnerable branches before a storm hits can help prevent them from becoming dangerous projectiles. They also present a fire hazard.
  3. Thin the Canopy – By selectively removing smaller branches, you allow wind to pass through more easily, reducing the risk of the tree being uprooted.
  4. Check for Overgrown Branches – Make sure no branches are hanging too close to your home, power lines, or other structures.
  5. Inspect Tree Roots and Soil Stability – A healthy root system is key to a tree’s stability. Mulching around the base can help protect roots and retain moisture.
  6. Remove Hazardous Trees – If a tree is dead or poses a high risk, removal might be the best option. Consult a professional arborist to make sure it’s done safely.
  7. Install Support Systems – Some trees benefit from cabling or bracing, which can provide extra stability during high winds.
  8. Choose Wind-Resistant Species – When planting new trees, opt for native species like Moreton Bay figs or hoop pines, which are well-suited to withstand Brisbane’s storm conditions.
  9. Prepare Your Emergency Kit – Make sure it is store in an accessible area and a waterproof box. Check on its contents regularly to make sure that nothing is expired.
  10. Have a Portable Radio on Hand – Keep this next to your emergency kit and include spare batteries. This is to make sure that even if a power outage happens, you can still be able to get important updates and news about the storm.

Why Trust Brisbane Tree Removals With Your Trees?

At Brisbane Tree Removals, we pride ourselves on being a part of the local community, just like you. We’ve been helping Brisbane homeowners prepare their trees for storm season for over 14 years. Our team follows Safe Work Method Instructions (SWMS) to ensure the highest level of safety, and we’re fully licensed and insured, so you don’t have to worry about any risks.

We’re also transparent about our costs—no hidden fees, just up-front, affordable pricing. When you hire us, you’re not just getting a service; you’re getting peace of mind knowing that your property is in safe hands.

What Brisbane Tree Removals Can Do for You

We offer a comprehensive range of services to help you prepare for storm season, including:

  • Tree Removal
  • Arborist Reports
  • Tree Risk Assessment
  • Stump Removal
  • Palm Tree Removal
  • Severe Storm and Emergency Services
  • Tree Pruning
  • Tree Management Plans
  • Commercial Tree Removal
  • Tree Consulting
  • Stump Grinding

No matter the complexity of your tree care needs, we’ve got you covered.

Why Choose Brisbane Tree Removals?

With over 14 years of operation and a team with 20 years of tree care experience, we’re Brisbane’s go-to experts for tree services. Here’s why:

  • Free no-obligation quotes.
  • Licensed and insured professional arborists.
  • We clean up, leaving your property mess-free.
  • Affordable, transparent pricing.
  • 24-hour emergency services.

When you choose Brisbane Tree Removals, you’re choosing reliability, professionalism, and a local team that cares about the safety of your trees and your property.

How to Obtain Your Free Quote

Ready to get started with storm season preparation for your trees? It’s easy.

  1. Just send us a message through our contact form or give us a call at 07 2143 5933.
  2. Let us know about your tree concerns
  3. We’ll send you a no-obligation quote

No pressure, just friendly advice and competitive prices!